- VIYA Health South Africa
Get Answers
Search our research-backed and expert-verified information to help you make the best decisions for your sexual health and wellness.
How can I know which contraceptive methods protect me from Sexually Transmitted Infections?
It is important to know that any contraceptive method that does not include a barrier such as a condom does not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases.
My partner's penis has a rash after using a condom! What might be causing this?
Some people are allergic to latex, in which case using polyurethane or polyisoprene condoms may help prevent an allergic reaction.
Does masturbation have side effects?
Medically, the answer is a firm ‘no’ 🙅🏽♀️. Masturbating a lot won’t hurt you or cause serious health problems. It’s only a problem if it gets in the way of your daily activities – like school or social life. If you are worried, you can talk with an adult you trust. But odds are you’re not masturbating too much.
Masturbation can be great for stress relief 🧖🏽♀️🧖🏽♂️, and it has even been shown to increase your levels of happiness. It provides sexual satisfaction and you get to know your body, your likes and dislikes.
Sexual Health
Menstrual Health
What is menstruation?
Menstruation is a natural process that girls and women need to feel empowered to talk openly about, yet this aspect of health is often still seen as a taboo subject. From the initial phase to menopause, our period affects our physical, psychological and social well-being and the healthiest thing is to talk about it.
What is considered a "normal" menstrual cycle?
A normal menstrual cycle can range from 21 to 35 days for adults, and bleeding typically lasts between 2 and 7 days. It’s common for cycles to be a bit longer and more irregular in the first few years after periods start, but they usually become more regular with age.
Everyone is different, so what’s normal for you may not be the same as for someone else. If your cycles are consistently outside this range or you notice sudden changes, it’s a good idea to check in with your healthcare provider.
How do I know if my period is too heavy or too light?
Menstrual flow can vary a lot from person to person, and even from one cycle to the next. Some people have light periods, while others have heavier ones-both can be normal.
However, if you need to change your pad or tampon every hour, your period lasts longer than 7 days, or you feel dizzy or weak, you may be experiencing heavy bleeding and should talk to a doctor.
Tracking your period each month can help you understand what’s typical for you and spot any changes that might need attention.
Can you get pregnant during your period?
During monthly bleeding the chances of pregnancy are low but not zero. Bleeding itself does not prevent pregnancy, and it does not promote pregnancy, either. In the first several days of monthly bleeding, the chances of pregnancy are lowest. As the days pass, the chances of pregnancy increase, whether or not she is still bleeding.
The risk of pregnancy rises until ovulation. The day after ovulation the chances of pregnancy begin to drop steadily. Some fertility awareness methods that depend on cervical secretions advise avoiding unprotected sex during monthly bleeding because cervical secretions cannot be detected during bleeding and there is a small risk of ovulation at this time.
Can every couple use fertility awareness methods?
Yes. However, the couples must be highly motivated, well-trained in their method, and committed to avoiding unprotected sex during the fertile time.
Can I use a female condom during pregnancy?
You can use the female condom when you are pregnant since the condom doesn’t move beyond the cervix. You can also use a female condom after recently giving birth.
Pregnancy
Contraception
Our condom broke! What should we do?
If your condom breaks, do not panic, let your partner know and visit the nearest pharmacy/clinic.
What is the contraceptive patch?
The contraceptive patch stuck to the skin releases hormones. It is highly effective at stopping pregnancy.
Will the hormones released from an IUD affect my periods?
Many women find that heavy, painful periods are reduced. There can sometimes be irregular bleeding initially, but this should go after the first few months.
What are health benefits associated with sexual pleasure?
There are lots of health benefits associated with sexual pleasure: better general health, better self-esteem, better fitness, better sleep, less stress and tension and longer life.
How often should I have sex?
Your own sex drive can change based on things like stress, medications you take, and other physical, emotional, and lifestyle factors.
How can I get an orgasm?
Orgasms can happen through different kinds of sexual stimulation, both inside and outside of your body. For example, a lot of people experience orgasms by stimulating their clitorises rather than penetrating their vaginas. Some people can’t reach orgasm through vaginal sex at all. So, ask your partner what feels good. And while you’re at it, let them know what feels good to you, too.
All people experience orgasms in different ways, and they can feel different at different times. So there’s no reason to feel freaked out about asking if your partner had an orgasm 💦💦— asking shows that you care about making your partner feel good, which is super important when it comes to having good sex. Communicating about sex 🗣 — before, during, and after — helps both of you understand what the other one likes and doesn’t like, which can make sex better and strengthen your relationship💏.
Pleasure
just a community of women who want to connect, share and support each other in achieving a happier and healthier state of mind and body.
join the bold community
Be a Part of the Global Change for Sexual Health and Wellness
Together, we can make a difference by normalizing the conversation around sexual health and pleasure. Join VIYA’s global mission to shape a world where every woman’s pleasure, wellness and health are prioritized.
